A bitter legal battle over a £600,000 inheritance has seen a man branded a “parasite” by his younger siblings in a dispute over the family home. Robert Chung, 62, is fighting to claim sole ownership of the property, while his siblings argue the estate should be split equally three ways.
Conflicting Accounts of Family Duty
The dispute centers on a three-bedroom detached home in South Woodford, East London, currently valued at approximately £400,000. Robert Chung told Central London County Court that he moved back into the home in 1990 to provide care for his parents, Victor and Irene Chung.
He claims he abandoned a “well-paid” career in the film industry to fulfill this duty, subsequently spending 22 years working in a Job Centre. Robert asserts that both parents promised him the house in exchange for his care, and that a will drawn up in his favor during his mother’s final days was never executed before her death in 2016.
However, his siblings—senior accountant Marina Bennett, 60, and IT manager Richard Chung, 58—present a starkly different narrative. They describe their brother as a “financial drain” and a “disappointment” who failed to “fly the nest.”
Allegations of Deception and Neglect
The siblings contend that Robert’s professional history has been exaggerated. While Robert mentioned writing promotional copy and working in merchandising, his siblings claim his “film industry” experience was actually a job at a Blockbuster video store.
Marina Bennett testified that she was “horrified” by her mother’s condition during a visit in 2016, noting that Irene Chung had lost 30lbs in weight. She accused Robert of failing as a caregiver, alleging he spent his time “lounging in the living room watching movies non-stop.”
Robert has denied these claims, stating he ensured his mother’s meals were arranged and her clothes were clean before he left for work. He argued that his siblings’ testimony should be viewed with caution, as they stand to benefit financially if his claim is rejected.
Legal Stakes and Possible Outcomes
Because Irene Chung died without a valid will, the estate is currently slated to be split three ways. This has led to an eviction notice being served to Robert by the estate’s professional administrator.
Robert is currently defending the possession claim and counterclaiming for full ownership based on the alleged promises made by his parents. The administrator is seeking a ruling that Robert must leave the house so it can be sold and the proceeds divided.
Judge Lawrence McDonald has reserved his decision until a later date. A potential ruling could result in Robert being granted the home, or he may be required to vacate the property and potentially pay the substantial rent arrears claimed by the estate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total value of the inheritance battle?
The inheritance battle is valued at £600,000, with the family home in South Woodford estimated to be worth about £400,000.
Why does Robert Chung believe he is entitled to the house?
Robert claims that he gave up a successful film industry career to care for his parents and that they promised him the house as a result of his care and sacrifice.
What is the basis for the siblings’ opposition?
Marina Bennett and Richard Chung claim that Robert did not provide actual care, was a “financial drain” on their parents, and that no such promise regarding the house was ever made.
How should courts balance oral family promises against the absence of a formal written will?